Bamenda: Impressive Military, Political Actions

North West Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique presided at the 46th National Day celebration in the regional capital Bamenda

Security was tightened and it was a fair weather that Bamenda celebrated the 46th National Day on May 20th 2018. North West Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique presided at the event in the Bamenda Commercial Avenue grandstand with Colonel Onambele Louis commanding the troops.

The newly created 5th Joint Military Region featured prominently with their pioneer commander Brigadier General Agha Robinson on seat. The event also featured innovations with the participation for the first time of a mixed squad of elements of the defense forces and a female gendarmerie squad. It was a moment for nation builders.

In effect Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique arrived the grandstand at 10.05 a.m. and proceeded with the decoration of some inhabitants of the region who excelled before setting the pace for the military and civilian march past.

The event could have been better but for the socio- political crisis rocking the region. Social media threats by unidentified people discouraged many from participating.

However, defense forces impressed with a parade that featured squads of the national gendarmerie, infantry, rapid interventions Batalion, Air Force, Fire fighting unit, ex service men, police, Penitentiary administration, Customs department, Forestry etc. The military and the security forces also showcased heavy equipment adapted to rise to the expectations in times like this.

The civilian march past also enrolled courageous pupils and students from some schools with the University of Bamenda impressing with their different schools and faculties.

Public service equally Marched past while the CPDM, MRC, and UNDP political parties virtually stole the show. The CPDM imposed with peace plants, song, dance and improvised rituals that appeal for peace.